DWYPD Internship: International Relations & Capacity Building

Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Internship: International Relations & Capacity Building

Introduction

Looking to launch your career in international relations or political science? Here’s your chance. The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is offering a 24-month internship in International Relations, Stakeholder Management and Capacity Building based in Pretoria. This role is more than just a CV booster—it’s a real opportunity to build skills in diplomacy, policy coordination, and stakeholder engagement. If you’re someone who’s studied international studies online or political science and wants hands-on experience in a meaningful government role, this internship is made for you.

About the Role

As an intern in the Chief Directorate of International Relations, Stakeholder Management and Capacity Building, you’ll work closely with professionals who navigate international diplomacy and cross-sector partnerships. Expect to contribute to building strong relationships with international partners, support capacity-building initiatives, and help monitor development goals related to gender equality and disability inclusion. You’ll also get exposure to research tasks, preparing reports, and gaining a clear understanding of how domestic and international policy interconnect.

Who Should Apply

This internship is ideal for graduates with a National Diploma or Degree in International Relations or Political Science—especially those focused on international affairs degree programmes or studying political science. Perfect for recent international relations graduates and politics studies enthusiasts, this is your opportunity to apply academic knowledge in a real-world setting. If you’ve ever considered a master’s in international relations or took political science classes that excited you, this internship will help bridge study and practical application.

Skills & Requirements

To thrive in this position, you should have:

• A National Diploma or Degree in International Relations or Political Science
• A genuine interest in international relations graduate roles or global policy
• Strong written communication and research skills
• Ability to engage effectively with stakeholders—from government to NGOs
• Organisational skills to support capacity building programs

These competencies align with expectations for a future career in international affairs degree roles or capacity building programs focused on inclusion and transformation.

Benefits

While this is an internship and not a full-time salaried job, the position does offer a stipend of R7 860 per month, which can help support living expenses in Pretoria. More importantly, you’ll receive practical mentorship, direct exposure to policy development, and valuable insights into how government tackles international and inclusive development agendas. The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities is a respected institution within the public sector, and the professional credibility you’ll gain from this role will be a real asset for anyone pursuing international affairs, diplomacy, or research fellowships.

How to Apply

Ready to apply? Send the following to Recruitment01@dwypd.gov.za:

• Your fully completed and signed Z83 application form (download from gov.za)
• Your detailed CV

Combine both documents into one PDF (maximum 15 MB). In the email subject line, write: Intern: International Relations – Ref No: DWYPD/MERC02/2025. Applications without a Z83, or sent as JPEGs, will not be accepted. If you haven’t heard back within three months of 29 September 2025, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Closing Thoughts

If you’re a political science graduate or international relations degree holder eager to make a difference and build a career in diplomacy or public service, this internship is your springboard. You’ll develop practical skills while contributing to inclusive, socially meaningful work. Don’t wait—apply now and be part of a team that’s helping shape a more equitable South Africa.